Operational modes for a refuse vehicle

ABSTRACT

A refuse vehicle has a chassis supporting a plurality of wheels, as well as a motor. A vehicle body is also supported by the chassis and defines a receptacle for storing refuse. A lifting system is coupled to the vehicle body and is movable between a first position and a second position vertically offset from the first position. The refuse vehicle also has a processing unit in communication with the lifting system and the motor. The processing unit is configured to access and toggle through a plurality of preset operational modes stored within a memory to adjust performance parameters of the refuse vehicle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/851,196, filed Apr. 17, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/840,974, filed Apr. 30, 2019, bothof which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Refuse vehicles have many different uses, configurations, andapplications. Vehicle operators can perform a variety of different tasksusing different controls on the vehicle. Because refuse vehicles aredesigned to accomplish many different tasks, certain components on thevehicle may be useful in performing some operations, but not helpful forperforming others.

SUMMARY

One exemplary embodiment relates to a refuse vehicle. The refuse vehiclehas a chassis supporting a plurality of wheels, a motor supported by thechassis, a vehicle body, a lifting system, a processing unit, and agraphical user interface (GUI). The vehicle body is supported by thechassis and defines a receptacle for storing refuse. The lifting systemis movable between a first position (e.g., stowed and lowered) and asecond position (e.g., deployed and raised) vertically offset from thefirst position. The processing unit is in communication with the liftingsystem and the motor and is configured to access and toggle through aplurality of preset operational modes stores within a memory to adjustperformance parameters of at least one of the motor and lifting system.The GUI is in communication with the processing unit and is configuredto display a plurality of inputs. Each of the plurality of inputscorresponds to a preset operational mode. Upon receiving a selection ofone of the inputs on the GUI, the processing unit adjusts theperformance parameters of at least one of the motor and lifting systemto values associated with the operational mode that is associated withthe at least one of the plurality of inputs selected.

Another exemplary embodiment relates to a method of controlling a refusevehicle. The method includes receiving a selection of a presetoperational mode of the refuse vehicle. The method further includesaccessing a memory, with a processing unit in communication with alifting system and a motor of the refuse vehicle, to retrieve presetperformance parameters of the refuse vehicle associated with theselected preset operational mode of the refuse vehicle. The performanceparameters include a compactor frequency and a compacting forcedelivered by a compactor within a receptacle of the refuse vehicle. Themethod further includes adjusting current performance parameters of therefuse vehicle to equal the preset performance parameters associatedwith the selected preset operational mode of the refuse vehicle.

Another exemplary embodiment relates to a refuse vehicle. The refusevehicle has a chassis supporting a plurality of wheels, a motorsupported by the chassis, a vehicle body, a lifting system, a processingunit, and a graphical user interface (GUI). The vehicle body issupported by the chassis and defines a receptacle for storing refuse.The lifting system is movable between a first position (e.g., stowed andlowered) and a second position (e.g., deployed and raised) verticallyoffset from the first position. The processing unit is in communicationwith the lifting system and the motor and is configured to access andtoggle through a plurality of preset operational modes stores within amemory to adjust performance parameters of at least one of the motor andlifting system. The GUI is in communication with the processing unit andis configured to display a plurality of inputs. Each of the plurality ofinputs corresponds to a preset operational mode. The preset operationalmodes include at least a recycling mode, a garbage mode, a residentialmode, and a commercial mode. Upon receiving a selection of one of therecycling mode and the garbage mode on the graphical user interface, thegraphical user interface prompts the selection of one of the residentialmode and the commercial mode. Upon receiving a selection of at least oneof the residential mode and the commercial mode on the graphical userinterface, the processing unit adjusts the performance parameters of atleast one of the motor and lifting system to values associated with theat least two preset operational modes selected.

The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being carried outin various ways. Alternative exemplary embodiments relate to otherfeatures and combinations of features as may be recited herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The disclosure will become more fully understood from the followingdetailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingfigures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a refuse vehicle, according to anexemplary embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a pictorial view of a user interface that can be presented ona display of the refuse vehicle of FIG. 1 , depicting several selectableoperational mode presets;

FIG. 3A is a detail view of the graphical user interface of FIG. 2 ,depicting exemplary operational presets related to materials;

FIG. 3B is a detail view of the graphical user interface of FIG. 2 ,depicting exemplary operational presets related to refuse receptacletype;

FIG. 3C is a detail view of the graphical user interface of FIG. 2 ,depicting exemplary operational presets related to overall vehiclesystem performance;

FIG. 4 is a process diagram of a method for controlling a refusevehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment; and

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of components that can be incorporatedinto a refuse vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplaryembodiments in detail, it should be understood that the presentapplication is not limited to the details or methodology set forth inthe description or illustrated in the figures. It should also beunderstood that the terminology is for the purpose of description onlyand should not be regarded as limiting.

Referring to the FIGURES generally, the various exemplary embodimentsdisclosed herein relate to systems, apparatuses, and methods forcontrolling a refuse vehicle, such as a front loader, side loader, orrear loader. Specifically, refuse vehicles can be controlled using avariety of different and selectable preset operational modes that areoptimized to help a refuse vehicle perform different tasks moreefficiently. Different operational modes can be assigned depending onthe type of collection route (e.g., recycling or garbage, residential orcommercial), type of fuel source being used (e.g., diesel fuel orcompressed natural gas), ambient outdoor temperature, or the presence ofanother implement (e.g., equipment coupled to a PTO shaft), for example.The different selectable operational modes each provide set values forperformance parameters of the vehicle that are chosen to moreeffectively carry out different tasks that may be assigned to a refusevehicle. Different operational modes may be best achieved usingdifferent motor requirements, lifting system requirements, on-boardcompactor requirements, or other subsystem adjustments that can beexecuted by a processing system to ensure a more streamlined completionof a desired task. The different operational modes can be selected by auser, by an off-site fleet command center, or automatically implementedby an on-board processing unit and carried out through the completion ofan assigned task. For example, an onboard global positioning system(GPS) can monitor the current location of the refuse vehicle and togglethrough different operational modes depending on where the refusevehicle is traveling. Each operational mode can be designed to reducethe amount of manual interaction between an operator and the refusevehicle during operation, which may further limit mistakes and lost timeduring operation.

Referring to FIG. 1 , a refuse vehicle 10 is adapted for retrieving andhauling refuse from waste containers. The refuse vehicle 10 is depictedas a front end loader 10, but can also take the form of a rear endloader or side loader, for example, that is arranged to lift andtransfer contents of a waste container into an on-board receptacle 12.The refuse vehicle 10 has a vehicle chassis 14 that generally supportswheels 16, a vehicle body 18, and the receptacle 12. The vehicle body 18can include a cab 20 and a motor housing 22 that receives a motor 24.The motor 24 can produce rotational power that can then be transmittedto the wheels 16 through a transmission to drive the refuse vehicle 10.

The on-board receptacle 12 can be sized to receive the contents ofseveral waste containers (e.g., dumpsters, bins, refuse containers,etc.) so that the refuse vehicle 10 can execute an extended route thatincludes several stops. Upon arriving at each site, a lifting system 26(e.g., a hydraulic arm assembly) can engage and raise a waste containeruntil an opening of the waste container is inverted or angled downwardtoward the on-board receptacle 12. Aided by gravity, waste falls out ofthe opening of the waste container and into the on-board receptacle 12.The waste container can then be lowered to the ground and disengagedfrom the lifting system 26 so that the refuse vehicle 10 can drive toanother location along its route and repeat the waste removal process.

A control system 28 can be positioned within the cab 20 of the vehicle10, for example, to aid a driver in performing different vehicle tasks.The control system 28 can provide operating instructions to variousvehicle subsystems 44, including a steering system, the lifting system26, a waste compactor 46 (shown in FIG. 5 ) present within the on-boardreceptacle 12, a power take-off (PTO) shaft, the motor 24, cab climatecontrols, and/or other adjustable systems aboard the refuse vehicle 10.A processing unit 30 can issue instructions or commands to each systemwithin the vehicle 10 to execute desired vehicle functions.

With additional reference to FIGS. 2-5 , an operator can interact withthe control system 28 through a display 32 in communication with theprocessing unit 30. The display 32 can present a graphical userinterface (GUI) 34 that allows a user to monitor operational parametersof the vehicle 10 as well as input commands to the various vehiclesubsystems 44. The display 32 can be a touch screen display or can beaccompanied by a plurality of inputs (e.g., buttons, joysticks) that canbe used to toggle through and select a desired input 42 on the GUI 34.

Using the control system 28 and processing unit 30, the refuse vehicle10 can be operated in different preset operation modes to moreefficiently complete different tasks that may be assigned to the refusevehicle 10. Each operation mode can include a series of stored systemconfigurations or performance parameters that are optimized for thespecific vehicle or the specific task to be performed. The presetoperation mode and associated performance parameters can be storedwithin and accessed from a memory 36 (e.g., local or remote) that is incommunication with the processing unit 30.

The same refuse vehicle 10 may be used to collect and transportdifferent types of waste, and the preferred collection process may varyby waste type. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3A, the same refuse vehicle 10may be used to handle either recycling or garbage, and the preferredoperational mode changes depending on the selection. Before beginning aroute or driving the refuse vehicle 10, a user may first be prompted bythe GUI 34 to select the type of waste to be collected. Using inputs incommunication with the display 32 or the display itself (e.g., a touchscreen display), a vehicle operator can then select an icon on the GUI34 that represents the proper waste material type. Alternatively, thetype of waste to be collected can be determined automatically based uponthe day of refuse vehicle 10 operation (e.g., if there are designatedrecycling and garbage collection days). In some embodiments, the type ofwaste to be collected can be input remotely from a fleet command center56 or network computer in communication with the control system 28 ofthe refuse vehicle 10. In other examples, the type of material beingcollected can be determined based upon characteristics (e.g., size,color, shape) of the waste container being accessed, determined by asensor 48.

Selecting the “garbage” input or the “recycling” input (or another typeof waste input, such as organic material) from the GUI 34 adjusts theoperation mode of the refuse vehicle 10 to effectively deal with eachdifferent type of waste properly. If the recycling input is selected onthe GUI 34, the processing unit 30 can access a memory 36 storingspecific performance parameters preset for performing a recycling route.For example, the rate at which a compactor 46 or packer within theon-board receptacle 12 operates can be included within the performanceparameters associated with the recycling operation mode. Recyclingmaterials are generally lightweight and loosely packed (or entirelyunpacked) materials and are advantageously compacted frequently toimprove the overall capacity of the on-board receptacle 12 on thevehicle 10, so the rate at which the packer operates can be increased inthe recycling operation mode. The position and control mechanism of atop door 38 of the on-bard receptacle 12 can be adjusted based upon theselected operation mode as well. Because recycling materials may belightweight (e.g., cardboard), the recycling materials are often proneto blowing out of the on-board receptacle 12. To contain the collectedwaste material, the recycling operation mode can include executableinstructions that control the processing unit 30 to close the top door38 at all times when the vehicle 10 is traveling. In some examples, theprocessing unit 30 controls the top door 38 to be closed whenever thetransmission is in gear (e.g., a clutch of the refuse vehicle 10 isengaged to move the vehicle forward or in reverse). The top door 38 canbe further configured to automatically open whenever the arm or forks ofthe lifting system 26 are moved. Allowable capacity for the on-boardreceptacle 12 can be stored within the performance parameters as well,as recyclable material may be packed against the top door 38 without asignificant risk of damage to the vehicle 10.

Selecting the garbage input on the GUI 34 optimizes the vehicle 10 topick up and transport garbage. Performance parameters including thepacker (compactor 46) frequency, packer force, and top door 38 operationcan be adjusted upon selecting the garbage operation mode. In someexamples, the packer frequency is reduced compared to the recyclingmode. Additionally, the force supplied by the packer can be increased inorder to better compact garbage received within the on-board receptacle12. Finally, because garbage packing against the top door 38 can damagethe top door 38, the garbage operation mode can include instructions tokeep the top door 38 open at all times, regardless of whether thevehicle 10 is moving and regardless of whether the lifting system 26 isbeing moved. Each adjusted performance parameters can automate processesthat may otherwise need to be performed manually by a user, which canhelp avoid any mistakes during operation due to improper operation orfailure to perform certain tasks.

Once a waste material operational mode has been selected on the GUI 34,an operator may be prompted to select a route type. For example, and asshown in FIGS. 2 and 3B, the GUI 34 may ask an operator to input whetherthe route will be commercial or residential. The route type may directlyaffect the quantity, weight, and types of waste collected, so differentoperational modes are assigned for each type of operation.

Selecting the “residential” icon from the GUI 34 can prompt theprocessing unit 30 to initiate the residential operation mode.Residential routes typically involve more frequent dumps of less weight,and performance parameters can be tailored to effectively deal withthese constraints. For example, the packer cycling rate can be increasedin the residential mode to capture the lightweight waste materials andcontinue pushing them backwards within the on-board receptacle 12. Thetype of operational mode selected can also determine how or when thepacker operates. Because waste containers (e.g., garbage cans) alongresidential routes are typically positioned in close proximity, thevehicle 10 may need to make frequent stops to complete a route.Accordingly, the packer can be arranged to operate while the vehicle 10is in gear (e.g., drive or reverse). In some embodiments, the packer mayoperate only when a service brake or work brake is being applied to thevehicle 10. To maximize efficiency along the residential route, theoperator should stay in the cab 20 as much as possible. Variousperformance parameters of the vehicle can be tailored to encourage orincentivize the operator to remain within the cab 20 of the vehicle 10.For example, the lifting system 26 could be controlled only from withinthe cab 20 of the vehicle 10, or may require some authentication code orcredential in order to operate the lifting system 26 externally.Additionally, the lifting system 26 could be configured to only interactwith a certain size or color of waste container in the residential mode,as detected by a sensor 48 on the vehicle.

If the “commercial” mode of operation is selected from the GUI 34instead, the processing unit 30 can retrieve a set of performanceparameters that optimize the vehicle 10 to perform a typically morelabor-intensive commercial route. Commercial waste containers are oftenmore spread out, but each individual waste container may contain alarger volume of waste. Because the frequency of waste pickup isreduced, the packer within the on-board receptacle 12 may not need tooperate at a high frequency. However, like in the garbage operationmode, the force at which the packer operates may preferably be increasedto further compact the waste retrieved from each waste container alongthe route. Operators may need to get out of the cab 20 of the vehicle 10to access and retrieve commercial waste containers from fenced areas orcorrals, so the vehicle 10 may be parked periodically. The processingunit 30 can control the packer to operate when the vehicle 10 is inneutral, for example, and the parking brake is activated.

Selecting either of the residential or commercial routes can also promptthe processing unit 30 to begin measuring or recording data associatedwith the route. For example, the selection of a residential mode maythen present a menu of stored past residential routes performed by thevehicle 10 (or a different vehicle within the fleet) on the GUI 34. Theoperator can select a route from the GUI 34 associated with the desiredroute (or choose to start a new route) and the display 32 can present aGPS map indicating the location of various stops along the route or amap, generally, of the surrounding area. As the vehicle 10 navigates theroute and collects waste from each location, sensors 48 positionedthroughout the vehicle 10 can record data. For example, sensors 48positioned on the lifting system 26 can measure the weight of wasteretrieved from each location. Once paired with a GPS coordinate, acustomer at a specific address can be charged based upon the amount ofwaste collected at the site. For commercial routes, a customer could becharged based upon the amount of time spent at a location collectingwaste materials. Additional data, including whether or not any wastecontainers were found present at a designated pickup location can bestored within the memory 36 as well.

The GUI 34 can also display several different system operation modesthat may advantageously activate or modify the operation of differentvehicle subsystems 44 to optimize vehicle 10 performance. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3C, an array of selectable inputs 42 can be presented on thedisplay 32 that correspond with conditions the vehicle 10 may need tooperate under. For example, the vehicle 10 may need to accommodate forspecific performance parameters including hydraulic fluid temperature,transmission type, fuel type, ambient temperature, engine size, or othervariable characteristics of a refuse vehicle 10. An operator canmanually select an input on the GUI 34 to transition to a newoperational mode or an operational mode can be automatically selected bythe processing unit 30. For example, a temperature sensor 48 may bepositioned on the vehicle 10 and may communicate temperature readings tothe processing unit 30. If the detected temperature is below a thresholdvalue (e.g., −10 degrees C.), the processing unit 30 can initiate a“cold” operation mode. In some embodiments, a remote fleet manager couldselect a suitable operation mode for the vehicle 10.

Different operation modes can be provided for each possible type of fuelthat can power the refuse vehicle 10. For example, the GUI 34 canpresent selectable inputs for “standard,” “CNG,” “electric,” or othersuitable fuel sources. The standard input can correspond with astandard-sized diesel fuel engine that is operating within an acceptablerange of ambient temperatures. In the standard mode of operation storedwithin the memory 36, performance parameters related to vehiclesubsystems 44 can be adjusted so that all subsystems 44 are operational.The vehicle 10, lift system 26, motor 24, and compactor 46 can all beprovided with full power to exhibit peak performance. Vehicle subsystems44 do not require a throttle advance in this mode.

Some refuse vehicles 10 can be configured to run on compressed naturalgas (CNG) as well, and can have a dedicated operational mode for thisalternative fuel source. The GUI 34 can provide a selectable “CNG” inputthat can be implemented by the processing unit 30. The processing unit30 can be in communication with the motor 24, a fuel pump or injector(not shown), and/or the fuel source itself to transition the motor 24from receiving diesel fuel over to a mixture of diesel and CNG, or CNGalone. Beyond the motor 24 and fuel supply, other performance parametersof the vehicle may be adjusted to optimize the vehicle 10 for operatingwith alternative fuel sources. Ramping may be applied to certainfunctions of the vehicle to accommodate the process of how the motor 24handles fuel. Because CNG engines are slower to respond to changes inengine load (e.g., throttle input), overshoot and stalling conditionsmay occur under normal operating conditions. The processing unit 30 canautomatically execute a throttle advance to perform functions that mayrequire an increase in torque. For example, the amount of CNG suppliedto the motor 24 can be increased before and during the process ofopening and closing the tailgate 58 of the vehicle 10. In some examples,one or more of the vehicle subsystems 44 are operated below ratedcapacity when the vehicle 10 is in the CNG operational mode. Forexample, one or more hydraulic fluid pumps can be deactivated toaccommodate for the lower torque available from the motor 24. Theprocessing unit 30 can increase the idle rotational speed of the engineto help provide additional torque while the vehicle is stationary. Insome examples, the CNG operational mode can be used to providerotational power to an external shaft or implement. A power take-off(PTO) shaft (not shown) can be controlled using the GUI 34 andprocessing unit 30 in the CNG mode.

Like the CNG operational mode, the “cold” mode can include modifiedperformance parameters arranged to operate the refuse vehicle 10 at lessthan full capacity. For example, when the refuse vehicle 10 is beingoperated in ambient temperatures at or below 0 degrees C., certainvehicle subsystems 44 may be limited or otherwise reassigned. Functionsettings, ramps, and/or pump operation can be limited. Certainsubsystems 44 can be dead-headed to produce heat that can be used tohelp the pumps or other hydraulics properly operate. In someembodiments, heaters (not shown) may be positioned about the vehicle 10to supply heat to various locations within the hydraulic fluid flow pathor within the hydraulic fluid reservoir. Sensors 48 within the hydraulicfluid reservoir can monitor the temperature of the hydraulic fluidcontained within the reservoir, and can communicate with the processingunit 30 to operate the heaters (or dead head other functions to provideheat) when a detected hydraulic fluid temperature is below a thresholdvalue. In some embodiments, the cold operational mode can be initiatedby the processing unit 30 automatically when sensors detect hydraulicfluid temperature below a set threshold value or ambient temperaturebelow a set threshold value.

The GUI 34 can also display a selectable icon for a low horsepower or“low HP” mode. The low horsepower mode can include performanceparameters that are optimized to operate the vehicle 10 when the engineis capable of producing less than maximum power. Various factors maycontribute to vehicle performance, including engine size andtransmission type. With less available power, one or more of the vehiclesubsystems 44 can be operated below rated capacity. Like the CNG mode,one or more hydraulic fluid pumps can be deactivated to accommodate forthe lower torque available from the motor 24. The processing unit 30 canincrease the idle rotational speed of the engine to help provideadditional torque while the vehicle is stationary. The low horsepoweroperational mode can also be used to provide rotational power to anexternal shaft or implement. A PTO shaft (not shown) can also becontrolled using the GUI 34 and processing unit 30 in the low horsepowermode.

A method 100 of controlling a refuse vehicle 10 can be performed usingthe GUI 34 and processing unit 30, as detailed in FIG. 4 . At step 102,a processing unit like the processing unit 30 can receive a selection ofa preset operational mode. The selection of a preset operational modecan be made by an operator within the vehicle 10, automatically basedupon detected vehicle parameters (e.g., temperature, fuel source, enginesize), or remotely. For example, a fleet command center can provideinstructions, including a preset operational mode, to each refusevehicle 10 within its command.

Alternatively, the selection of a present operational mode at step 102can be generated by the processing unit 30. The processing unit 30,which can be in communication with an onboard GPS. The GPS, which can beincluded within the sensors 48 of the control system 28, monitors thelocation of the refuse vehicle 10 as the vehicle 10 travels. The memory36 can store a variety of different geographical indicators, such as“checkpoints” or geo-fences, which can be periodically compared with thecurrent location of the refuse vehicle 10. If the refuse vehicle 10crosses a stored geo-fence or reaches a checkpoint, for example, theprocessing unit 30 can transition the refuse vehicle 10 into a differentoperational mode. When the truck initially leaves to travel along aroute, the processing unit 30 can compare the location of the refusevehicle 10 to route maps or data stored within the memory 36. If theprocessing unit 30 determines that the location of the refuse vehicle 10(or the recent path traveled by the refuse vehicle 10) matches a storedmap location or route within the memory 36, the processing unit 30 cangenerate a selection to transition the refuse vehicle 10 to a differentoperational mode. For example, if the refuse vehicle 10 travels along astored pick-up route for a predetermined distance (e.g., 800 meters),the processing unit 30 recognizes that the refuse vehicle 10 istraveling along a stored residential route and issues a selection of theresidential operation mode. Alternatively, if the refuse vehicle 10travels a predetermined distance (e.g., 1600 meters) without recognizinga stored checkpoint or pick-up route, the processing unit 30 canautomatically select the commercial operation mode. Geo-fences can bepositioned around residential areas, for example, which cause theprocessing unit 30 to select the residential operation mode whenever therefuse vehicle 10 passes beyond the geo-fence. The sameroute-recognition by the processing unit 30 and GPS can be applied torecycling and garbage modes as well.

At step 104, the processing unit can access performance parametersassociated with the selected preset operational mode. As discussedpreviously, each preset operational mode optimizes the refuse vehicle 10in a different way, based upon the tasks to be accomplished, thesurrounding environmental conditions, or motor operation. The optimizedperformance parameters for each operational mode can be stored within amemory (e.g., memory 36) that can be accessed by the processing unit.The memory can be local or remote (e.g., cloud-based or network-based).The performance parameters may include packer frequency andpressure/force, hydraulic pump operation, heater operation, receptacletop door operation, vehicle subsystem operational levels and operationallogic, sensor operation, and/or performance of other controllable orvariable components on a refuse vehicle.

At step 106, the processing unit adjusts current performance parametersof the refuse vehicle to match the performance parameters accessed atstep 104. Adjusting the performance parameters of the vehicle tocorrespond with the values stored within the memory places the refusevehicle in the selected preset operational mode chosen at step 102. AGUI can display additional options related to the selected operationalmode or data sensed or otherwise received during operation of the refusevehicle within the selected operational mode, for example. The refusevehicle is then optimized to perform a specific task or perform within aspecific set of operational constraints.

The control system 28 can be organized as shown in FIG. 5 . An on-boardpower source 40 (e.g., a battery) can provide electrical power to eachof the components within the control system 28. As discussed previously,the control system 28 includes a processing unit 30. The processing unit30 can be coupled to the display 32 to present the GUI 34. Inputs 42 incommunication with the display 32 and processing unit 30 can be used tointeract with the GUI 34. Memory 36 can be stored on-board the vehicle10 or remotely, but is in communication with and accessible by theprocessing unit 28.

The processing unit 28 issues commands and instructions to the vehiclesubsystems 44 positioned about the vehicle. The vehicle subsystems 44may include the motor 24, the lifting system 26, the compactor 46,sensors 48 positioned about the refuse vehicle 10, or other suitablycontrolled aspects of the refuse vehicle 10. Each subsystem 44 can bepowered by the power source 40 and operated using the inputs 42, whichmay include a steering wheel, throttle, joystick, buttons, or the like.

In some embodiments, the control system 28 includes a communicationsmodule 50 to send and receive data from an external source. For example,the communications module 50 may include a transmitter 52 that cancommunicate with an external computer (e.g., a fleet command center 56)or a network to send data related to the vehicle operational modes orperformance. The communications module 50 can further include a receiver54 that can communicate with an external computer or network to receiveinstructions, data, updated operational modes and performanceparameters, and other data that may advantageously be used to operatethe refuse vehicle 10. Using the communications module 50, a refusevehicle 10 can be remotely controlled or monitored to ensure optimizedperformance is occurring.

Although this description may discuss a specific order of method steps,the order of the steps may differ from what is outlined. Also two ormore steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence.Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosenand on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of thedisclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplishedwith standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and otherlogic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps,comparison steps, and decision steps.

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “substantially”,and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony withthe common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art towhich the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should beunderstood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure thatthese terms are intended to allow a description of certain featuresdescribed and claimed without restricting the scope of these features tothe precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms shouldbe interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequentialmodifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimedare considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in theappended claims.

It should be noted that the term “exemplary” as used herein to describevarious embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments arepossible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possibleembodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that suchembodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean thejoining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Suchjoining may be stationary (e.g., permanent, etc.) or moveable (e.g.,removable, releasable, etc.). Such joining may be achieved with the twomembers or the two members and any additional intermediate members beingintegrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with thetwo members or the two members and any additional intermediate membersbeing attached to one another.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,”“above,” “below,” “between,” etc.) are merely used to describe theorientation of various elements in the figures. It should be noted thatthe orientation of various elements may differ according to otherexemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to beencompassed by the present disclosure.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of therefuse vehicle as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrativeonly. Although only a few embodiments of the present disclosure havebeen described in detail, those skilled in the art who review thisdisclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible(e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes andproportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mountingarrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) withoutmaterially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of thesubject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formedmay be constructed of multiple parts or elements. It should be notedthat the elements and/or assemblies of the components described hereinmay be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that providesufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors,textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications areintended to be included within the scope of the present inventions.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferredand other exemplary embodiments without departing from scope of thepresent disclosure or from the spirit of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A refuse vehicle, comprising: a chassissupporting a plurality of wheels; a motor supported by the chassis; avehicle body supported by the chassis and defining a receptacle forstoring refuse therein; a lifting system movable between a firstposition and a second position vertically offset from the firstposition; a processing unit in communication with the lifting system andmotor and configured to access and toggle through a plurality of presetoperational modes stored within a memory to adjust performanceparameters of at least one of the motor and lifting system, wherein theperformance parameters modify the operation of the at least one of themotor or lifting system; and a graphical user interface in communicationwith the processing unit and configured to display a plurality ofinputs, each of the plurality of inputs corresponding to one of thepreset operational modes; wherein upon receiving a selection of one ofthe plurality of inputs on the graphical user interface, the processingunit adjusts the performance parameters associated with the presetoperational mode associated with the at least one of the plurality ofinputs selected to modify the operation of the at least one of the motorand lifting system until a different preset operational mode isselected.
 2. The refuse vehicle of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofpreset operational modes include a standard mode and a CNG mode, thestandard mode being different than the CNG mode.
 3. The refuse vehicleof claim 2, wherein when the refuse vehicle is in the CNG mode, theprocessing unit controls a fuel system within the vehicle to transitionto use a fuel mixture at least partly including CNG.
 4. The refusevehicle of claim 2, wherein in the CNG mode, the processing unitincreases an amount of CNG supplied to the motor in when a tailgate ofthe vehicle is opened or closed.
 5. The refuse vehicle of claim 2,wherein in the CNG mode, the processing unit controls at least onevehicle subsystem to operate below a rated capacity.
 6. The refusevehicle of claim 2, wherein in the standard mode a fuel system of thevehicle uses a fuel mixture at least partly including diesel.
 7. Therefuse vehicle of claim 1, wherein the processing unit automaticallyselects one of the plurality of preset operational modes based on asensed condition.
 8. The refuse vehicle of claim 7, wherein the sensedcondition is external temperature.
 9. The refuse vehicle of claim 1,wherein at least one of plurality of preset operational modes is a coldmode.
 10. The refuse vehicle of claim 9, wherein in the cold mode, theprocessing unit controls at least one vehicle subsystem to operate belowa rated capacity.
 11. The refuse vehicle of claim 9, wherein theprocessing circuit automatically initiates the cold mode when anexternal temperature is a below a temperature threshold.
 12. The refusevehicle of claim 9, wherein when the refuse vehicle is in the cold mode,at least one subsystem of the refuse vehicle is dead-headed to generateadditional heat.
 13. The refuse vehicle of claim 9, wherein when therefuse vehicle is in the cold mode, at least one heater positioned inthe refuse vehicle is activated.
 14. The refuse vehicle of claim 1,wherein the plurality of preset operational modes include a standardmode and a low horse-power mode, the standard mode being different thanthe low-horse power mode.
 15. The refuse vehicle of claim 14, wherein inthe cold mode, the processing unit controls at least one vehiclesubsystem to operate below a rated capacity.
 16. A method of controllinga refuse vehicle, comprising: receiving a selection of a presetoperational mode of the refuse vehicle; accessing a memory, with aprocessing unit in communication with a lifting system and a motor ofthe refuse vehicle, to retrieve preset performance parameters of therefuse vehicle associated with the selected preset operational mode ofthe refuse vehicle, the performance parameters including a compactorfrequency and a compacting force delivered by a compactor within areceptacle of the refuse vehicle; and adjusting current performanceparameters of the refuse vehicle to equal the preset performanceparameters associated with the selected preset operational mode of therefuse vehicle to modify the operation of the compactor until adifferent preset operational mode is selected.
 17. The method of claim16, wherein the memory stores a plurality of preset operational modes,the plurality of preset operational modes including a recycling mode anda garbage mode, and wherein in the recycling mode, the processing unitcontrols the compactor to operate at a first compactor frequency, andwherein in the garbage mode, the processing unit controls the compactorto operate at a second compactor frequency lower than the firstcompactor frequency.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the selectionof the preset operational mode of the refuse vehicle is received by theprocessing unit after performing the steps of: detecting, with a globalpositioning system, a current location of the refuse vehicle; comparing,with the processing unit, the current location of the refuse vehicle toat least one geographical indicator stored within the memory; andaccessing the memory, with the processing unit, to retrieve the presetoperational mode of the refuse vehicle associated with the at least onegeographical indicator upon determining that the current location of therefuse vehicle corresponds to the at least one geographical indicator.19. The method of claim 16, wherein the memory stores a plurality ofpreset operational modes, the plurality of preset operational modesincluding a residential mode, and wherein in the residential mode, theprocessing unit performs the additional steps of: accessing, from thememory, a residential route including a global positioning system mapindicating a plurality of pickup locations along the residential route;displaying, on a graphical user interface, the residential route;determining, with a global positioning system, a current location of therefuse vehicle; measuring, with a sensor, an amount of refuse collectedat the current location of the refuse vehicle; and communicating acommand to the memory to store the current location of the refusevehicle and the measured amount of refuse collected from the currentlocation of the refuse vehicle.
 20. A refuse vehicle, comprising: achassis supporting a plurality of wheels; a motor supported by thechassis; a vehicle body supported by the chassis and defining areceptacle for storing refuse therein; a lifting system movable betweena first position and a second position vertically offset from the firstposition; a processing unit in communication with the lifting system andmotor and configured to access and toggle through a plurality of presetoperational modes stored within a memory to adjust performanceparameters of at least one of the motor and lifting system, the presetoperational modes including at least a recycling mode, a garbage mode, aresidential mode, and a commercial mode, wherein the processing unit isconfigured to automatically select at least one of the plurality ofpreset operational modes based on a sensed condition; and wherein uponselecting one of the recycling mode and the garbage mode, the processingcircuit automatically selects of one of the residential mode and thecommercial mode, and wherein upon selecting least one of the residentialmode and the commercial mode on the graphical user interface, theprocessing unit adjusts the performance parameters of at least one ofthe motor and lifting system to values associated with the at least twopreset operational modes selected.